During this Christmas season, as millions reflect on the Nativity story, it is worth considering Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and the enduring message her life conveys. God chose this seemingly ordinary poor Jewish teen from the small village of Nazareth to play a key role in salvation history. Mary’s story reveals profound truths about the transformative power of faith and the enduring strength found in service and humility.

Based on cultural and historical context, scholars estimate that Mary was likely a teenager, around 12-16 years old. Mary and Joseph’s flight to Egypt following Jesus’ birth (Matthew 2:13-15) suggests that Mary experienced life as a refugee. After the visit of the Magi, King Herod ordered the massacre of male infants in Bethlehem to eliminate the threat of a “new king” (Matthew 2:16). Warned in a dream, Joseph fled with Mary and Jesus to Egypt. Mary and Joseph lived under the oppressive Roman government. The Bible strongly implies that Mary and Joseph were of modest means, if not outright poor. When they presented Jesus at the Temple (Luke 2:22-24), they offered “a pair of doves or two young pigeons” as a sacrifice. This offering was permitted under Mosaic law for those who could not afford a lamb (Leviticus 12:8), indicating financial constraints.

God’s choice of Mary was not based on human merit but on God’s sovereign will and grace. In Luke 1:28, the angel Gabriel greets Mary with the words, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” The prophecy, “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel.” Mary’s virginity and lineage (as a descendant of David), fulfill these messianic prophecies. Mary had the personality and holy example God was looking for, and she had the capacity to witness the brutality of the crucifixion while others either looked or ran away.  God knew Mary had the faith to stay at Jesus’ side.

A Model of Humility and Faith

Mary’s influence extends beyond Christianity, bridging divides and fostering respect among faiths.

In Jewish tradition, women shaped the spiritual lives of their children. As Jesus’ first teacher, Mary guided Him in Jewish practices like prayers, dietary laws, and Torah stories. Mary became His earliest model of righteous living, embodying the Halakhah — the guiding principles of Jewish law.

Her life reflected the values of justice, kindness, and devotion central to Jewish faith.

For Christians, Mary is revered as the Mother of God (Theotokos) and the first disciple of Christ. Her “yes” to God’s plan was the foundation of salvation history, and her unwavering presence at the cross epitomized discipleship and love.

In Islam, Mary (Maryam) is honored as one of the greatest women in history. The Quran celebrates her as chosen and purified above all women (Quran 3:42). Mary is the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran and is referenced more often there than in the New Testament.

These traditions illuminate Mary’s extraordinary role as a unifying figure, transcending differences through her example of devotion, courage, and compassion.

Lessons for All Faiths

God’s choice of Mary reflects His preference for the lowly and marginalized. Mary’s Magnificat proclaims:

“He has brought down the powerful from their thrones and lifted up the lowly; He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty” (Luke 1:52-53).

Her life is a countercultural vision in a world consumed by materialism, reminding us that greatness lies in humility and service. Figures like Mother Teresa exemplify this in action.

Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan — “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38) — is a profound act of faith. Her trust in God amidst societal judgment and personal hardship inspires perseverance and trust in today’s turbulent times.

As a refugee and a woman of modest means under Roman rule, Mary’s story resonates with countless displaced and marginalized individuals throughout history. Her example challenges those with privilege to uplift the vulnerable, echoing the mission of modern organizations aiding refugees and the poor.

Mary’s unwavering devotion to Jesus, from His birth to His crucifixion, embodies discipleship. Her faith inspires believers to pursue lives of service and commitment. Modern figures like St. Oscar Romero, who stood with the oppressed, mirror her courage and love.

Mary holds a unique and exalted position in the Catholic tradition. Her titles — Theotokos (God-bearer), Queen of Heaven, and Mother of the Church — reflect her singular role in salvation history. Catholic doctrines such as the Immaculate Conception, Perpetual Virginity, and Assumption elevate her as a model of purity, devotion, and sanctity.

Mary’s story transcends boundaries, uniting people through her virtues of humility, courage, and service. Just as her life was shaped by her faith in God, her influence has shaped faith traditions across centuries, uniting people of different beliefs through her example of love and service.

This Christmas season, let Mary’s story inspire us to act: to extend kindness to those in need, stand with the marginalized, and strive for unity in a divided world. Her legacy challenges us to bring light and hope into the lives of others.

Ed Gaskin is Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets and founder of Sunday Celebrations.